Ripening

Definition

Ripening is the series of changes in color, texture, aroma and sweetness that make fruit ready to eat. Chlorophyll fades, starches turn to sugars, flesh softens and aroma develops. How it proceeds depends on the fruit: climacteric fruit continue off the plant, non-climacteric fruit do not. Color is one clue, but smell, weight and gentle give are often more reliable guides. See also: Climacteric fruit, Ethylene, Chlorophyll, and the guide "How to Choose Ripe Yellow Fruit at the Market".